The first time I carved a ring in wax and watched it come back to me in gold, something shifted. It felt like magic and alchemy and possibility all at once. I knew I had found the thing I was meant to do.
That feeling is what I want to share with you.
There is something different about wearing a piece you made with your own hands. A ring you carved carries your fingerprints, your decisions, your story. It becomes more than jewelry. It becomes a marker of a moment in your life, a memory you can wear every day.
Our ring carving workshops in Denver give you the tools, guidance, and space to create something that is entirely your own.
What is ring carving?
Ring carving is the first step in an ancient jewelry making process called lost wax casting. You begin with a block of carving wax and slowly shape it into a ring using files, saws, and simple hand tools. Once your carving is complete, your wax model is cast into metal, transforming your design into a permanent piece of jewelry you can wear for years to come.
No experience is necessary.
Wax is forgiving. It allows you to carve, refine, reshape, and experiment until your piece feels right. Most people are surprised by what they create in just a few hours.
What to expect in the workshop
When you arrive at the studio, I'll introduce you to the tools, techniques, and process, then stay alongside you as you carve your ring.
Some people create bold statement bands. Others carve delicate stackers or sculptural signets. Some incorporate symbolism or details that hold personal meaning. There is no right way to do it and no expectation that your ring should look like anyone else's.
The goal isn't perfection.
The goal is to make something that feels like you.
This is an intimate class. I keep it to just five seats so everyone gets real, hands on attention, and we spend a full four hours together, from your first cut to your finished carving.
What's included
- Guided instruction from me for the full four hours
- All tools and wax carving materials
- Your finished design cast and hand finished by our studio here in Denver in sterling silver
- Optional gold and gemstone upgrades if you want to take your piece further, using the stones we have on hand
- Light snacks and drinks to keep you inspired
- Your finished ring ready in approximately six to eight weeks
A few things to know before you come. Participants must be 21 or older, and we ask that you arrive 15 minutes early so we can start on time. Once you reserve, we'll email you the full class details and the studio location. Tickets are non-refundable, so please take a look at the cancellation policy when you book.
Who these workshops are for
These workshops attract all kinds of people, and honestly, that's one of my favorite parts.
Some people come alone because they want a few hours away from their phones and responsibilities to make something with their hands. Some come with friends to celebrate a birthday or milestone. Some couples carve their own wedding bands or create rings to mark a new chapter together.
They are especially meaningful for:
- Couples creating their own wedding or commitment bands
- Anniversaries, birthdays, and milestones worth celebrating
- Friends looking for a creative experience to share
- Anyone craving time away from screens and back in their hands
- Meaningful gifts and experiences that last longer than an afternoon
Why carve at Universal Deco
I opened Universal Deco because I wanted to create a space where jewelry could hold meaning.
I was born in Costa Rica and grew up surrounded by craftsmanship, objects made slowly by hand, and stories carried through materials and making. That relationship between objects and memory is still at the center of my work today.
Every piece we make begins with intention, craftsmanship, and respect for the person who will carry it forward.
When you carve here, you're working in a real fine jewelry studio using the same tools, techniques, and processes we use to create our custom pieces and heirloom jewelry. You'll spend the day surrounded by art, craftsmanship, and possibility.
My favorite moment happens somewhere in the middle of every workshop.
Someone looks down at what they've made and says some version of, "Wait... I made this?"
Yes, you did.
And you are probably more capable at the bench than you think.
How to join
I host ring carving workshops throughout the year, and with only five seats in each class, they tend to fill quickly. You can see upcoming dates and reserve your spot on our workshops page.
If the current session is sold out, follow along at @universaldecoart, where I announce new dates first. You can also email hello@universaldeco.art to be added to the list, and I'll let you know as soon as a new workshop opens.
The workshop is $395 and includes everything above: guided instruction, all tools and materials, and your finished ring cast in sterling silver.
If you have questions in the meantime, reach out at hello@universaldeco.art or call (720) 263-2791.
I'd love to make something with you.
